May 02, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2025
MDOC CONTACT: Jenni Riehle, MDOC Public Information Officer, Riehlej2@michigan.gov
Macomb, MI - Mickaela McKeller, Macomb County Probation Agent, was selected as the 2025 Candice Dunn Agent of the Year, which was announced by Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi E. Washington and Field Operations Administrator Russ Marlan at the Macomb County Probation Office in Mount Clemens, Michigan.
Agent McKellar has established herself as a trusted expert on electronic monitoring cases, frequently called upon to testify in court and proving herself as a valuable partner for law enforcement agencies. Agent McKellar’s exceptional diligence and quick action were instrumental in a high-profile investigation when a suspect in a tragic homicide of a child was under her supervision. She immediately took decisive action and became a critical resource to local law enforcement, utilizing GPS monitoring data to provided detectives with detailed records of the suspects location during the relevant time frame. These GPS data points were essential in supporting the police investigation and obtaining the initial arrest warrant.
“Agent McKellar’s dedication to excellence, and motivation to serve her community well, make her an invaluable member of our department. Her commitment to those on her caseload, her team at Macomb County, and local law enforcement partners is admirable,” said MDOC Director Heidi E. Washington. “We are proud to announce Mickaela as this year’s Candice Dunn Agent of the Year and thank her for her service to the State of Michigan.”
Mickaela is an exceptional leader for the individuals under her supervision, the agents she works with, and the department at large. Taking initiative to mentor members of her team, she has spearheaded the creation of a Compliance Response Team, a groundbreaking initiative focused on behavior driven referrals from staff which aim to increase involvement in compliance checks to ensure timely responses and effective results. Her dedication has motivated colleagues to continuously improve as well.
Agent McKeller provided the following advice for agents just starting their careers: “Just be yourself. If your passion is there everything just kind of follows it. I think this job can take you very far if you care enough.”
Agent McKellar has worked for MDOC for nearly a decade. She is a wife and mother of two, who further supports her community by participating in career nights with L’Anse Creuse Public Schools, being an active member of the Macomb County Office Engagement Committee, and other volunteer efforts.
Agent of the Year is awarded on an annual basis to an MDOC agent who exceeds expectations and displays exemplary behavior with those they supervise and their colleagues. Agent McKellar was selected from 11 finalists from around the state who had been selected from the more than 100 parole and probation offices MDOC operates.
Agent of the Year Winner Mickaela McKeller (center) with MDOC Director Heidi E. Washington (right) and Field Office Administrator Russ Marlan (left).
MDOC Director Heidi E. Washington (center) and Field Office Administrator Russ Marlan (left) applaud Agent of the Year Winner Mickaela McKeller (right).
Macomb County Probation Office in Mount Clemens, Michigan.
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